The Port of Rotterdam recorded a notable reduction in fossil bunker fuel sales during the second quarter of 2026, totaling 1,636,483 metric tonnes (mt). This figure represents a decrease from 1,685,991 mt in Q1 2026 and a more substantial drop from 2,321,429 mt in Q2 2025. This marks the fourth consecutive quarter that Rotterdam has observed a decline in fossil bunker sales. Specifically, sales of ultra-low sulphur fuel oil (ULSFO) reached 123,190 mt in Q2 2026, down from 162,142 mt in Q1 2026 and 225,992 mt in Q2 2025. Very low sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO) sales also saw a reduction, reaching 354,448 mt.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this sustained decline in fossil bunker sales at a major European hub like Rotterdam could signal a broader industry trend towards alternative fuels or more efficient vessel operations. While not directly impacting freight rates or capacity in the short term, it suggests a gradual shift in carrier fuel procurement strategies. This might lead to increased availability and potentially more competitive pricing for greener fuel options in the future, influencing vessel routing and carrier choices based on fuel availability and cost.
